Japanese Figure Depicting Cow

All angles and sharp creases, this faceted beast has the stance of a folded paper animal.

This cast iron figure of a cow is from Japan, and dates to the mid 20th century. Cast iron is made by pouring molten iron into a mold, and Japanese foundries have a long tradition of using it for kettles, lanterns and figures. Structurally, the body is cut into flat planes with a deep dip across the back, a lifted head and narrow raised ridges at the rear. A glittering gold finish is worn through to dark patches, with creamy residue inside the hollow. It is 6.5 inches wide, 2.25 deep and 4.75 high.

Geometry with horns, and rather good at it.